Kettlebells for Cardio and Strength – Massachusetts

That’s a question I get asked regularly. The answer is “It depends.” and “Both“. Since I don’t have access to a ” real gym” I’m using mostly kettlebells for cardio and strength.

Kettlebells exercises are divided into two basic groups “grinds” and “ballistics“. Kettlebells for strength are often referred to as grinds. Grinds are performed slowly, rooted in strength, use full body tension, and include exercises like squats and presses. Kettlebells for cardio are called ballistics. Ballistics are generally fast (explosive), rooted in power and force, use a combination of relaxation and tension, and include swings and snatches. Of course, there are some of exercises that feel like both such as thrusters.

There is a lot of crossover between cardio and strength with kettlebells. If you are using kettlebells for cardio there is a lot of strength involved (assuming your bell is heavier than 10 lbs) and if you are using kettlebells for strength, depending on how you structure your workout, there is usually a fair amount (sometimes a lot) of cardiovascular work involved.

My Massachusetts workout was designed with beginners in mind (Kettlebell workouts filmed in the original 13 colonies are beginner based.) and primarily as a cardio circuit. However, as I said before, the beauty of kettlebells (and many of my other favorite tools) is that you get stronger while improving your conditioning and vice versa. They are an effective all around functional fitness tool making them perfect for busy people who don’t live to workout.

Cape Cod was an amazing place to workout. It’s hard to believe I was just there a few months ago.

When I look back at the pictures it feels like I’m looking at pictures of a dream!

Kettlebells for Cardio – Massachusetts

Set your timer to your desired interval (I used a gentle 30/30 work to rest interval.) and do exercises 1-13. Repeat circuit 1-3x.

Hint – If you are short on time use longer work periods (don’t go over a minute), shorter rest periods, and do the circuit once. If you are a machine keep the rest periods short and repeat 3x.

Kettlebells won’t fit everybody’s goals. If you want to be able to deadlift 300 pounds then you are going to need to use a bar and weights. But if you are looking for an alternative to the hamsterwheel treadmill while still improving your cardiovascular health then kettlebells are your friend.

About jennincat

I'm so happy you stopped by my little corner of the web where I write about fitness, food, and amazing women I "meet". I live in California with my wonderful husband and two rambunctious boys. I'm a personal trainer and dreamer. I enjoy most things but some of my favorites are reading, acting, camping, cooking, music, writing, traveling, and being in the moment with my favorite people! You can read more about me here! I hope you stop by often!

4 Responses to “Kettlebells for Cardio and Strength – Massachusetts”

30/30 intervals are often overlooked for people short on time and not realising that they don’t need 2 hours of gym time to start moving towards a healthier lifestyle. Just 20 minutes 3 times a week of intervals can have long lasting results!

My Name Is Jenn…

About this article

Disclosure: Occasionally, I receive free products. I'll let you know and pinky swear to write an honest review. This site also contains some affiliate links. I'm hoping to make a few pennies off of a product I have used, enjoy, and would recommend to a friend. These links helps cover the cost of running this site.